Geared Expanding Structures for Synchronized Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transformable structures with scissor-pairs require doubling of structural elements to synchronize movement, resulting in a higher part count compared to static structures, and limited rotational capability.
Innovation Solution
The use of geared connections between strut members via hub elements allows for synchronized movement without doubling the elements, enabling structures to rotate 180 degrees and transition between two unique folded states, allowing for complete transformation of color and shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scissor-pairs are used to synchronize movement in transformable structures, then movement synchronization is achieved, but the part count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components into integrated hub elements. Each hub element simultaneously serves as a connection point for multiple struts and incorporates gear mechanisms that synchronize movement, eliminating the need for separate scissor-pairs and reducing the overall part count while maintaining movement synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub elements are designed as universal components that perform multiple functions: connecting struts, providing rotational movement, synchronizing motion through gear mechanisms, and enabling both expanded and contracted states. This multi-functionality replaces the specialized scissor-pair components, reducing the number of different part types needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If members are doubled to synchronize movement, then structural stability is improved, but the number of elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple structural functions are merged into single hub elements. The hubs serve as both connection points and synchronization mechanisms through integrated gear systems, eliminating the need for doubled members while maintaining structural stability through the multi-functional design of each hub.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear mechanisms within the hub elements act as intermediaries that transmit and synchronize movement between struts. This intermediary mechanism provides the necessary stability and coordination without requiring duplication of the structural members themselves.
3Shape
If structures rotate 90 degrees at full expansion, then hub elements contact each other, but further rotation is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic rotational system where struts can rotate through 180 degrees rather than being fixed at 90 degrees. The gear mechanisms and hub element arrangements are designed to accommodate this larger range of motion, allowing the structure to transition between multiple states including fully expanded, fully contracted, and intermediate folded configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rotation in an additional dimensional sense by allowing 180-degree rotation instead of the conventional 90-degree rotation. This extended rotational capability in the same plane creates new spatial configurations and folded states while maintaining the same hub element contact mechanism.
4Device complexity
If single members are used instead of doubled members, then part count is reduced, but movement synchronization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Gear mechanisms serve as intermediary elements within the single hub components, mediating the movement between struts. These integrated gear systems provide the necessary synchronization functionality without requiring multiple separate members, thus reducing part count while maintaining reliable movement coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical scissor-pair system with a gear-based synchronization system integrated into the hub elements. This substitution uses gear meshing and engagement to achieve movement synchronization, providing a more compact solution that reduces the number of structural members needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces the number of required elements and enables structures to fully expand and contract smoothly, achieving two unique folded states that allow for color and shape transformation.
Implementation Method 1
a folding linkage is comprised of four links, each link having a bevel gear on its end, where each link is in geared contact with a neighboring link, such that both links are held together by a hub element
Implementation Method 2
An alternate embodiment of the invention has links that have a spur gear on each end, whereby each gear end is engaged with a central rack (linear gear)
Data Source
AI summary
A folding linkage is hereby disclosed that is comprised of four links, each link having a bevel gear on its end, where each link is in geared contact with a neighboring link, such that both links are held together by a hub element that is small relative to the two links. An alternate embodiment of the invention has links that have a spur gear on each end, whereby each gear end is engaged with a central rack (linear gear).